Let me start by saying that The Thaumaturge isn’t a game that grabs you from the first moment. In fact, as Wiktor Szulski, you start the game pretty rough. Warsaw in 1905 is a cold, unfriendly place, and everyone seems to want to fight you. What’s worse, Wiktor just won’t stop talking to himself. It’s a little unnerving to be honest.
But here’s the thing: I couldn’t stop playing. There’s a magic to this game that slowly drew me in. Maybe it’s the way Warsaw comes alive – the bustling streets, the whispers of revolution and discontent. Or maybe it’s the weird, wonderful world of Thaumaturgy. I’m kind of a magic nerd, and this game delivers with strange rituals and monstrous-looking salutors.
Speaking of salutors, these spectral creatures are a big part of the gameplay. As a Thaumaturge, I can not only see them, but bind them to do my bidding. At first, I felt a bit like a supernatural Pokemon trainer, especially as I gained more salutors and could swap them out. Some are sneaky, others are pure power. But hey, when a creepy monster is about to tear my head off, I’m not going to complain. The salutors also added a strategic layer to the turn-based combat that kept things interesting.
One thing that really got me hooked was the detective work. Wiktor isn’t just a brawler – this guy has a keen mind. Tracing evidence, analyzing clues, and piecing together what really happened was a satisfying challenge. And it wasn’t just for show – these investigations opened up whole new ways to solve problems.
Now, here’s where things get juicy: the choices. Wiktor is a flawed dude. His pride can be an advantage… or his downfall. The same was true for me, the player. Every conversation, every little action felt like it had an impact. Did I want to play up Wiktor’s arrogance or show some compassion? Both could lead to interesting outcomes, but often with a hefty price tag.
The Thaumaturge dives head-first into some heavy themes. The tension between workers and rulers in Warsaw was almost palpable. And the spiritual stuff? Let’s say the game doesn’t shy away from showing how people’s hidden darkness can literally attract terrible things. It made me think, maybe even get a bit uncomfortable, which is what a good story should do.
This isn’t a perfect game by any means. It’s got jank. Some animations are off, and I had a couple of technical hiccups. But honestly? It didn’t derail my experience. The Thaumaturge stuck with me long after I finished it. The characters, the choices, that atmosphere of a city on the brink… it all lingers.
So, should you play The Thaumaturge? If you love complex RPGs that make you feel like your decisions matter and you aren’t turned off by a dose of grit and darkness, then absolutely. It’s haunting, human, and sticks with you like a stubborn salutor.
My score: 8/10
